Air maintenance pumping assembly and tire

ABSTRACT

A tire assembly includes a tire, sidewalls, and a sidewall groove. The tire has a pneumatic cavity. The sidewall has at least one bending region operatively bending when radially within a rolling tire footprint of the tire. The sidewall groove is defined by groove sidewalls positioned within the bending region of the tire sidewall. The sidewall groove deforms segment by segment between a non-deformed state and a deformed, constricted state in response to the bending of the sidewall bending region when radially within the rolling tire footprint. An air passageway is defined by the sidewall groove and a cover strip. The air passageway resiliently deforms segment by segment between an expanded condition and an at least partially collapsed condition in response to respective segment by segment deformation of the sidewall groove when radially within the rolling tire footprint.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to air maintenance tires and, more specifically, to an air maintenance and tire pumping assembly.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Normal air diffusion reduces tire pressure over time. The natural state of tires is under inflated. Accordingly, drivers must repeatedly act to maintain tire pressures or they will see reduced fuel economy, tire life and reduced vehicle braking and handling performance. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems have been proposed to warn drivers when tire pressure is significantly low. Such systems, however, remain dependant upon the driver taking remedial action when warned to re-inflate a tire to recommended pressure. It is a desirable, therefore, to incorporate an air maintenance feature within a tire that will maintain air pressure within the tire in order to compensate for any reduction in tire pressure over time without the need for driver intervention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one form of the present invention, a tire assembly includes a tire, first and second tire sidewalls, and a sidewall groove. The tire has a pneumatic cavity. The first and second sidewalls extending respectively from first and second tire bead regions to a tire tread region. The first sidewall has at least one bending region operatively bending when radially within a rolling tire footprint of the tire. The sidewall groove is defined by groove sidewalls positioned within the bending region of the first tire sidewall. The sidewall groove deforms segment by segment between a non-deformed state and a deformed, constricted state in response to the bending of the first sidewall bending region radially within the rolling tire footprint. An air passageway is defined by the sidewall groove and a cover strip. The air passageway resiliently deforms segment by segment between an expanded condition and an at least partially collapsed condition in response to respective segment by segment deformation of the sidewall groove when radially within the rolling tire footprint. The cover strip is applied at an open end of the sidewall groove for separating the air passageway from ambient air pressure.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the cover strip is cured directly to the first, already cured tire sidewall.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, the cover strip is cured to the first tire sidewall by a heated platen.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the tire assembly further includes a separate tube disposed within the sidewall groove. The separate tube defining a circular air passageway.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, the separate tube has an outer profile corresponding to an inner profile of the sidewall groove.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the tire assembly further includes a second cover strip disposed at an axially inner end of the sidewall groove.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, the first cover strip is cured directly to the first, already cured tire sidewall by a heated platen.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the cover strip is cord reinforced.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, the second cover strip is a gum strip.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the tire assembly further includes check valves disposed at multiple arcuate positions about the sidewall groove.

In another form of the present invention, a tire assembly includes a tire, first and second sidewalls, and a sidewall groove. The tire has a pneumatic cavity. The first and second sidewalls extend respectively from first and second tire bead regions to a tire tread region. The first sidewall has at least one bending region operatively bending when radially within a rolling tire footprint of the tire. The sidewall groove is defined by groove sidewalls positioned within the bending region of the first tire sidewall. The groove deforms segment by segment between a non-deformed state and a deformed, constricted state in response to the bending of the first sidewall bending region radially within the rolling tire footprint. An air passageway is defined by the sidewall groove and a tube assembly. The air passageway resiliently deforms segment by segment between an expanded condition and an at least partially collapsed condition in response to respective segment by segment deformation while radially within the rolling tire footprint. The tube assembly comprises a first tube and a second tube. The first tube is secured within the sidewall groove. The second tube is secured within the first tube. The second tube defines the air passageway resiliently deforming segment by segment between an expanded condition and an at least partially collapsed condition in response to respective segment by segment deformation of the tube assembly when radially within the rolling tire footprint.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the first tube is formed of a plastic and the second tube is formed of an extruded polymer.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, the second tube has an outer circular cross-section and an inner circular cross-section.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the first tube comprises relief cuts at axially inner corners of a U-shaped opening for facilitating pinching of the tube assembly.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, the second tube has an outer profile corresponding to an inner profile of the first tube.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the first tube comprises outer radial extensions engaging corresponding recesses in the sidewall groove for circumferentially securing the tube assembly within the sidewall groove.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, the outer radial extensions project radially inward.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the outer radial extensions project radially outward.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, the tire assembly further includes an adhesive securing the first tube within the sidewall groove.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the first tube comprises an inner partially closed U-shaped profile in cross-section and an outer partially closed U-shaped profile in cross-section.

Definitions

“Aspect ratio” of the tire means the ratio of its section height (SH) to its section width (SW) multiplied by 100 percent for expression as a percentage.

“Asymmetric tread” means a tread that has a tread pattern not symmetrical about the center plane or equatorial plane EP of the tire.

“Axial” and “axially” means lines or directions that are parallel to the axis of rotation of the tire.

“Chafer” is a narrow strip of material placed around the outside of a tire bead to protect the cord plies from wearing and cutting against the rim and distribute the flexing above the rim.

“Circumferential” means lines or directions extending along the perimeter of the surface of the annular tread perpendicular to the axial direction.

“Equatorial Centerplane (CP)” means the plane perpendicular to the tire's axis of rotation and passing through the center of the tread.

“Footprint” means the contact patch or area of contact of the tire tread with a flat surface at zero speed and under normal load and pressure.

“Groove” means an elongated void area in a tire dimensioned and configured in section for receipt of a an air tube therein.

“Inboard side” means the side of the tire nearest the vehicle when the tire is mounted on a wheel and the wheel is mounted on the vehicle.

“Lateral” means an axial direction.

“Lateral edges” means a line tangent to the axially outermost tread contact patch or footprint as measured under normal load and tire inflation, the lines being parallel to the equatorial centerplane.

“Net contact area” means the total area of ground contacting tread elements between the lateral edges around the entire circumference of the tread divided by the gross area of the entire tread between the lateral edges.

“Non-directional tread” means a tread that has no preferred direction of forward travel and is not required to be positioned on a vehicle in a specific wheel position or positions to ensure that the tread pattern is aligned with the preferred direction of travel. Conversely, a directional tread pattern has a preferred direction of travel requiring specific wheel positioning.

“Outboard side” means the side of the tire farthest away from the vehicle when the tire is mounted on a wheel and the wheel is mounted on the vehicle.

“Peristaltic” means operating by means of wave-like contractions that propel contained matter, such as air, along tubular pathways.

“Radial” and “radially” means directions radially toward or away from the axis of rotation of the tire.

“Rib” means a circumferentially extending strip of rubber on the tread which is defined by at least one circumferential groove and either a second such groove or a lateral edge, the strip being laterally undivided by full-depth grooves.

“Sipe” means small slots molded into the tread elements of the tire that subdivide the tread surface and improve traction, sipes are generally narrow in width and close in the tires footprint as opposed to grooves that remain open in the tire's footprint.

“Tread element” or “traction element” means a rib or a block element defined by a shape with adjacent grooves.

“Tread Arc Width” means the arc length of the tread as measured between the lateral edges of the tread.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be described by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1; Isometric exploded view of an example tire and tube assembly.

FIG. 2; Side view of the example tire/tube assembly.

FIG. 3A-3C; Details of an example outlet connector.

FIG. 4A-4E; Details of an example inlet (filter) connector.

FIG. 5A; Side view of an example tire rotating with air movement (84) to cavity.

FIG. 5B; Side view of the example tire rotating with air flushing out filter.

FIG. 6A; Section view taken from FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6B; Enlarged detail of tube area taken from FIG. 6A, sidewall in non-compressed state.

FIG. 7A; Section view taken from FIG. 5A.

FIG. 7B; Enlarged detail of tube area taken from FIG. 7A, sidewall in compressed state.

FIG. 8A; Enlarged detail of an example tube & groove detail taken from FIG. 2.

FIG. 8B; Detail showing an example tube compressed and being inserted into the groove.

FIG. 8C; Detail showing an example tube fully inserted into the groove at a ribbed area of the groove.

FIG. 8D; Exploded fragmented view of tube being inserted into a ribbed groove.

FIG. 9; Enlarged detail taken from FIG. 2 showing an example rib profile area located on both sides of the outlet to a cavity connector.

FIG. 10A; Enlarged detail of the groove with the example rib profile.

FIG. 10B; Enlarged detail of tube pressed into the example rib profile.

FIG. 11; Enlarged detail taken from FIG. 2 showing another example rib profile area located on both sides of the outlet to a cavity connector.

FIG. 12A; Enlarged detail of the groove with the other example rib profile.

FIG. 12B; Enlarged detail of the tube pressed into the other example rib profile.

FIG. 13A; Enlarged view of another example tube & groove detail.

FIG. 13B; Detail showing tube from FIG. 13A being compressed and inserted into the groove.

FIG. 13C; Detail showing the tube from FIG. 13A fully inserted into the groove.

FIG. 14A; Enlarged view of a third example tube & groove detail.

FIG. 14B; Detail showing tube from FIG. 14A being compressed and inserted into the groove.

FIG. 14C; Detail showing the tube from FIG. 14A fully inserted into the groove.

FIG. 15A; Enlarged view of a fourth example tube & groove detail.

FIG. 15B; Detail showing tube from FIG. 15A being compressed and inserted into the groove.

FIG. 15C; Detail showing the tube from FIG. 15A fully inserted into the groove.

FIG. 16; Detail showing one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 17; Detail showing another aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 18; Detail showing still another aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 19; Detail showing yet another aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 20; Detail showing still another aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 21; Detail showing yet another aspect of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 6A, an example tire assembly 10 may include a tire 12, a peristaltic pump assembly 14, and a tire rim 16. The tire may mount in conventional fashion to a pair of rim mounting surfaces 18, 20 adjacent outer rim flanges 22, 24. The rim flanges 22, 24 each have a radially outward facing flange end 26. A rim body 28 may support the tire assembly 10 as shown. The tire 12 may be of conventional construction, having a pair of sidewalls 30, 32 extending from opposite bead areas 34, 36 to a crown or tire tread region 38. The tire 12 and rim 16 may enclose a tire cavity 40.

As seen from FIGS. 2 and 3A, 3B, 3C, 6B and 8A, the example peristaltic pump assembly 14 may include an annular air tube 42 that encloses an annular passageway 43. The tube 42 may be formed of a resilient, flexible material such as plastic or rubber compounds that are capable of withstanding repeated deformation cycles of a flattened condition subject to external force and, upon removal of such force, returned to an original condition generally circular in cross-section. The tube 42 may have a diameter sufficient to operatively pass a volume of air for purposes described herein and allowing a positioning of the tube in an operable location within the tire assembly 10 as will be described below. In the example configuration shown, the tube 42 may be an elongate, generally elliptical shape in cross-section, having opposite tube sidewalls 44, 46 extending from a flat (closed) trailing tube end 48 to a radiussed (open) leading tube end 50. The tube 42 may have a longitudinal outwardly projecting pair of locking detent ribs 52 of generally semi-circular cross-section and each rib extending along outward surfaces of the sidewalls 44, 46, respectively.

As referenced in FIG. 8A, the tube 42 may have a length L1 within a range of 3.65 mm to 3.80 mm; a width of D1 within a range of 2.2 mm to 3.8 mm; a trailing end width of D3 within a range of 0.8 mm to 1.0 mm. The protruding detent ribs 52, 54 may each have a radius of curvature R2 within a range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm and each rib may be located at a position distance L3 within a range of 1.8 mm to 2.0 mm of the trailing tube end 48. The leading end 50 of the tube 42 may have a radius R1 within a range of 1.1 mm to 1.9 mm. The air passageway 43 within the tube 42 may likewise be generally elliptical with a length L2 within a range of 2.2 mm to 2.3 mm; and a width D2 within a range of 0.5 mm to 0.9 mm.

The tube 42 may be profiled and geometrically configured for insertion into a groove 56. The groove 56 may have an elongate, generally elliptical configuration with a length L1 within a range of 3.65 mm to 3.80 mm complementary to the elliptical shape of the tube 42. The groove 56 may include a restricted narrower entryway 58 having a nominal cross-sectional width D3 within a range of 0.8 mm to 1.0 mm. A pair of groove-rib receiving axial detent channels 60, 62 of semi-circular configuration may be formed within opposite sides of the groove 56 for corresponding receipt of the tube locking ribs 52, 54, respectively. The channels 60, 62 may be spaced approximately a distance L3 within a range of 1.8 mm to 2.0 mm of the groove entryway 58. Detent channels 60, 62 may each have a radius of curvature R2 within a range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm. An inward detent groove portion 64 may be formed with a radius of curvature R1 within a range of 1.1 mm to 1.9 mm and a cross-sectional nominal width D1 within a range of 2.2 mm to 3.8 mm.

As best seen from FIGS. 8D, 9, 10A and 10B, the tire 12 may further form one or more compression ribs 66 extending the circumference of, and projecting into, the groove 56. The ribs 66 may form a pattern of ribs of prescribed pitch, frequency, and location, as described below. For the purpose of explanation, seven compression ribs may be referred to generally by numeral 66 in the first rib profile pattern shown, and specifically by the rib designations D0 through D6. The ribs D0 through D6 may be formed in a sequence and pitch pattern in order to optimize the pumping of air through the tube passageway 43. The ribs 66 may each have a unique and predetermined height and placement within the pattern and, as shown in FIG. 8D, project outward into the groove 56 at a radius R3 (FIG. 8A) within a range of 0.95 mm to 1.60 mm.

With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 3A through 3C, and 4A through E, the peristaltic pump assembly 14 may further include an inlet device 68 and an outlet device 70 spaced apart approximately 180 degrees at respective locations along the circumferential air tube 42. The example outlet device 70 has a T-shaped configuration in which conduits 72, 74 direct air to, and from, the tire cavity 40. An outlet device housing 76 contains conduit arms 78, 80 that integrally extend from respective conduits 72, 74. Each of the conduit arms 78, 80 have external coupling ribs 82, 84 for retaining the conduits within disconnected ends of the air tube 42 in the assembled condition. The housing 76 is formed having an external geometry that complements the groove 56 and includes a flat end 86, a radiused generally oblong body 88, and outwardly projecting longitudinal detent ribs 90. The housing 76 may this be capable of close receipt into the groove 56 at its intended location with the ribs 90 registering within the groove 56 as represented in FIG. 8A.

The inlet device 68, as seen in FIGS. 12, 4A through 4E, may include an elongate outward sleeve body 94 joining an elongate inward sleeve body 96 at a narrow sleeve neck 98. The outward sleeve body is generally triangular in section. The inward sleeve body 96 has an oblong external geometry complementary to the groove 56 and includes a pair of detent ribs 100 extending longitudinally along the inward sleeve body. An elongate air entry tube 101 is positioned within the inward sleeve body 96 and includes opposite tube ends 102 and a pattern of entry apertures 104 extending into a central tube passageway. External ribs 106, 108 secure the tube ends 102 in the air tube 42 opposite the outlet device 70.

As shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A through D, the pump assembly 14 may comprise the air tube 42 and inlet and outlet devices 68, 70 affixed in-line to the air tube at respective locations 180 degrees apart when inserted into the groove 56. The groove 56 may be located at a lower sidewall region of the tire 12 that, when the tire is mounted to the rim 16, positions the air tube 42 above the rim flange ends 26. FIG. 8B shows the air tube 42 diametrically squeezed and collapsed to accommodate insertion into the groove 56. Upon full insertion, as shown in FIG. 8C, the ribs 52, 54 may register within the groove channels 60, 62 and the flat outer end 48 of the tube 42 may be generally coplanar with the outer surface of the sidewall of the tire. Once fully inserted, the air passageway 43 of the tube 42 may elastically restore itself into an open condition to allow the flow of air along the tube during operation of the pump.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A through 8D, the inlet device 68 and the outlet device 70 may be positioned within the circumference of the circular air tube 42 generally 180 degrees apart. The tire 12 with the tube 42 positioned within groove 56 rotates in a direction of rotation 110, causing a footprint 120 to be formed against the ground surface 118. A compressive force 124 is directed into the tire 12 from the footprint 120 and acts to flatten a segment of the air tube passageway 43 opposite the footprint 120, as shown at numeral 122. Flattening of a segment of the passageway 43 forces air from the segment along the tube passageway 43 in the direction shown by arrow 116, toward the outlet device 70.

As the tire 12 continues to rotate in the direction 110 along the ground surface 118, the tube 42 may be sequentially flattened or squeezed opposite the tire footprint, segment by segment, in a direction opposite to the direction 110. A sequential flattening of the tube passageway 43, segment by segment, may cause evacuated air from the flattened segments to be pumped in the direction 116 within tube passageway 43 toward the outlet device 70. Air may flow through the outlet device 70 and to the tire cavity 40, as shown at 130. At 130, air exiting the outlet device 70 may be routed to the tire cavity 40 and serve to re-inflate the tire 12 to a desired pressure level. A valve system to regulate the flow of air to the cavity 40, when the air pressure within the cavity falls to a prescribed level, is shown and described in pending U.S. patent applicant Ser. No. 12/775,552, filed May 7, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference.

With the tire 12 rotating in direction 110, flattened tube segments may be sequentially refilled by air flowing into the inlet device 68 in the direction 114, as shown by FIG. 5A. The inflow of air into the inlet device 68, and then into the tube passageway 43, may continue until the outlet device 70, rotating in a counterclockwise direction 110, passes the tire footprint 120. FIG. 5B shows the orientation of the peristaltic pump assembly 14 in such a position. The tube 42 may continue to be sequentially flattened, segment by segment, opposite the tire footprint 120 by a compressive force 124. Air may be pumped in the clockwise direction 116 to the inlet device 68 and evacuated or exhausted external to the tire 12. Passage of exhaust air, as shown at 128, from the inlet device 68 may occur through a filter sleeve 92 exemplarily formed of a cellular or porous material or composite. Flow of air through the filter sleeve 92 and into the tube 101 may thus cleanse debris or particulates. In the exhaust or reverse flow of air direction 128, the filter sleeve 92 may be cleansed of trapped accumulated debris or particles within the porous medium. With the evacuation of pumped air out of the inlet device 68, the outlet device 70 may be in a closed position preventing air flow to the tire cavity 40. When the tire 12 rotates further in counterclockwise direction 110 until the inlet device 70 passes the tire footprint 120 (as shown in FIG. 5A), the airflow may resume to the outlet device and cause the pumped air to flow out and into the tire cavity 40. Air pressure within the tire cavity 40 may thus be maintained at a desired level.

FIG. 5B illustrates that the tube 42 is flattened, segment by segment, as the tire 12 rotates in direction 110. A flattened segment 134 moves counterclockwise as it is rotated away from the tire footprint 120 while an adjacent segment 132 moves opposite the tire footprint and is flattened. Accordingly, the progression of squeezed or flattened or closed tube segments may be move air toward the outlet device 70 (FIG. 5A) or the inlet device 68 (FIG. 5B) depending on the rotational position of the tire 12 relative to such devices. As each segment is moved by tire rotation away from the footprint 120, the compression forces within the tire 12 from the footprint region may be eliminated and the segment may resiliently reconfigure into an unflattened or open condition as the segment refills with air from the passageway 43. FIGS. 7A and 7B show a segment of the tube 42 in the flattened condition while FIGS. 6A and 6B show the segment in an expanded, unflat or open configuration prior to, and after, moving away from a location opposite the tire footprint 120. In the original non-flattened configuration, segments of the tube 42 may resume the exemplary oblong generally elliptical shape.

The above-described cycle may repeat for each tire revolution, with half of each rotation resulting in pumped air moving to the tire cavity 40 and half of each rotation resulting in pumped air moving back out the filter sleeve 92 of the inlet device 68 for self-cleaning the filter. It may be appreciated that while the direction of rotation 110 of the tire 12 is as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B is counterclockwise, the subject tire assembly 10 and its peristaltic pump assembly 14 may function in a like manner in a reverse (clockwise) direction of rotation as well. The peristaltic pump assembly 14 may accordingly be bi-directional and equally functional with the tire 12 and vehicle moving in a forward or reverse direction of rotation and forward or reverse direction of the vehicle.

The air tube/pump assembly 14 may be as shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A and 7B. The tube 42 may be located within the groove 56 in a lower region of the sidewall 30 of the tire 12. The passageway 43 of the tube 42 may close by compression strain bending of the sidewall groove 56 within a rolling tire footprint 120, as explained above. The location of the tube 42 in the sidewall 30 may provide freedom of placement thereby avoiding contact between the tube 42 and the rim 16. Higher placement of the tube 42 in the sidewall groove 56 may use high deformation characteristics of this region of the sidewall as it passes through the tire footprint 120 to close the tube 42.

The configuration and operation of the grooved sidewalls, and in particular the variable pressure pump compression of the tube 42 by operation of ridges or compression ribs 66 within the groove 56 is shown in FIGS. 8A-8D, 9, 10A and 10B. The ridges or ribs are indicated by numeral 66 and individually as D0 through D6. The groove 56 may be uniform width circumferentially along the side of the tire 12 with the molded ridges D0 through D6 formed to project into the groove 56 in a preselected sequence, pattern, or array. The ridges D0 through D6 may retain the tube 42 in a predetermined orientation within the groove 56 and also may apply a variable sequential constriction force to the tube.

The uniformly dimensioned pump tube 42 may be positioned within the groove 56 as explained above—a procedure initiated by mechanically spreading the entryway D3 of the groove 56 apart. The tube 42 may then be inserted into the enlarged opening of the groove 56. The opening of the groove 56 may thereafter be released to return to close into the original spacing D3 and thereby capture the tube 42 inside the groove. The longitudinal locking ribs 52, 54 may thus be captured/locked into the longitudinal grooves 60, 62. The locking ribs 52, 54 resultingly operate to lock the tube 42 inside the groove 56 and prevent ejection of the tube from the groove 56 during tire operation/rotation.

Alternatively, the tube 42 may be press inserted into the groove 56. The tube 42, being of uniform width dimensions and geometry, may be manufactured in large quantities. Moreover, a uniform dimensioned pump tube 42 may reduce overall assembly time, material cost, and non-uniformity of tube inventory. From a reliability perspective, this results in less chance for scrap.

The circumferential ridges D0 through D6 projecting into the groove 56 may increase in frequency (number of ridges per axial groove unit of length) toward the inlet passage of the tube 42, represented by the outlet device 70. Each of the ridges D0 through D6 may have a common radius dimension R4 within a range of 0.15 mm to 0.30 mm. The spacing between ridges D0 and D1 may be largest, the spacing between D1 and D2 the next largest, and so on until the spacing between ridges D5 and D6 is nominally eliminated. While seven ridges are shown, more or fewer ridges may be deployed at various frequency along the groove 56.

The projection of the ridges into the groove 56 by radius R4 may serve a twofold purpose. First, the ridges D0 through D6 may engage the tube 42 and prevent the tube from migrating, or “walking”, along the groove 56 during tire operation/rotation from the intended location of the tube. Secondly, the ridges D0 through D6 may compress the segment of the tube 42 opposite each ridge to a greater extent as the tire 12 rotates through its rotary pumping cycle, as explained above. The flexing of the sidewall may manifest a compression force through each ridge D0 through D6 and may constrict the tube segment opposite such ridge to a greater extent than otherwise would occur in tube segments opposite non-ridged portions of the groove 56. As seen in FIGS. 10A and 10B, as the frequency of the ridges increases in the direction of air flow, a pinching of the tube passageway 43 may progressively occur until the passageway constricts to the size shown at numeral 136, gradually reducing the air volume and increasing the pressure. As a result, with the presence of the ridges, the groove 56 may provide variable pumping pressure within the tube 42 configured to have a uniform dimension therealong. As such, the sidewall groove 56 may be a variable pressure pump groove functioning to apply a variable pressure to a tube 42 situated within the groove. It will be appreciated that the degree of pumping pressure variation may be determined by the pitch or ridge frequency within the groove 56 and the amplitude of the ridges deployed relative to the diametric dimensions of the tube passageway 43. The greater the ridge amplitude relative to the diameter, the more air volume may be reduced in the tube segment opposite the ridge and pressure increased, and vice versa. FIG. 9 depicts the attachment of the tube 42 to the outlet device 70 and the direction of air flow on both sides into outlet device.

FIG. 11 shows a second alternative rib profile area located on both sides of the outlet to the outlet device 70. FIG. 12A shows an enlarged detail of the groove 56 with the alternative second rib profile and FIG. 12B shows an enlarged detail of the tube 42 pressed into the second rib profile. With reference to FIGS. 11, 12A, 12B, the ridges, or ribs, D0 through D6 in this alternative may have a frequency pattern similar to that described above in reference to FIGS. 10A, 10B, but with each rib having a unique respective amplitude as well. Each of the ribs D0 through D6 may generally have a semi-circular cross-section with a respective radius of curvature R1 through R7, respectively. The radii of curvatures of the ridges/D0 through D6 may be within the exemplary range: Δ=0.020 mm to 0.036 mm.

The number of ridges D0 through D6 and respective radii of each ridge may be constructed outside the above ranges to suit other dimensions or applications. The increasing radius of curvature in the direction of air flow may result in the ridges D0 through D6 projecting at an increasing amplitude and, to an increasing extent, into the passageway 43 toward the outlet device 70. As such, the passageway 43 may constrict to a narrower region 138 toward the outlet device 70 and cause a correspondingly greater increase in air pressure from a reduction in air volume. The benefit of such a configuration is that the tube 42 may be constructed smaller than otherwise necessary in order to achieve a desired air flow pressure along the passageway 43 and into the tire cavity 40 from the outlet device 70. A smaller sized tube 42 may be economically and functionally desirable in allowing a smaller groove 56 within the tire 12 to be used, thereby resulting a minimal structural discontinuity in the tire sidewall.

FIGS. 13A through 13C show another tube 42 and groove 56 detail in which the detent ribs 90 of FIG. 8A through 8C are eliminated as a result of rib and groove modification. This tube 42 may have an external geometry and passageway configuration with indicated dimensions within ranges specified as follows:

-   -   D1=2.2 to 3.8 mm;     -   D2=0.5 to 0.9 mm;     -   D3=0.8 to 1.0 mm;     -   R4=0.15 to 0.30 mm;     -   L1=3.65 to 3.8 mm;     -   L2=2.2 to 2.3 mm;     -   L3=1.8 to 2.0 mm.         The above ranges may be modified to suit a particular         dimensional preference, tire geometry, or tire application. The         external configuration of the tube 42 may include beveled         surfaces 138, 140 adjoining the end surface 48; parallel and         opposite straight intermediate surfaces 142, 144 adjoining the         beveled surfaces, respectively; and a radiused nose, or forward         surface 146, adjoining the intermediate surfaces 142, 144. As         seen from FIGS. 13B and 13C, the tube 42 may be compressed for         press insertion into the groove 56 and, upon full insertion,         expand. The constricted opening of the groove 56 at the sidewall         surface may retain the tube 42 securely within the groove 56.

FIGS. 14A through 14C show another tube 42 and groove 56 configuration. FIG. 14A is an enlarged view and 14B is a detailed view showing the tube 42 compressed and inserted into the groove 56. FIG. 14C is a detailed view showing the tube 42 fully inserted into the groove 56. The tube 42 may be generally elliptical in cross-section inserting into a like-configured groove 56. The groove 56 may have a narrow entryway formed between opposite parallel surfaces 148, 150. In FIGS. 14A through 14C, the tube 42 is configured having an external geometry and passageway configuration with dimensions within the ranges specified as follows:

-   -   D1=2.2 to 3.8 mm;     -   D2=0.5 to 0.9 mm;     -   D3=0.8 to 1.0 mm;     -   R4=0.15 to 0.30 mm;     -   L1=3.65 to 3.8 mm;     -   L2=2.2 to 2.3 mm;     -   L3=1.8 to 2.0 mm.         The above ranges may be modified to suit a particular         dimensional preference, tire geometry, or tire application.         FIGS. 15A through 15C show another tube 42 and groove 56         configuration. FIG. 15A is an enlarged view and FIG. 15B is a         detailed view showing the tube 42 compressed and inserted into         the groove 56. FIG. 15C is a detailed view showing the tube 42         fully inserted into the groove 56. The tube 42 may be generally         have a parabolic cross-section for inserting into a         like-configured groove 56. The groove 56 may have an entryway         sized to closely accept the tube 42 therein. The ridges 66 may         engage the tube 42 once inserted into the groove 56. In FIGS.         15A through 15C, the tube 42 has an external geometry and         passageway configuration with dimensions within the ranges         specified as follows:     -   D1=2.2 to 3.8 mm;     -   D2=0.5 to 0.9 mm;     -   D3=2.5 to 4.1 mm;     -   L1=3.65 to 3.8 mm;     -   L2=2.2 to 2.3 mm;     -   L3=1.8 to 2.0 mm.         The above ranges may be modified to suit a particular         dimensional preference, tire geometry, or tire application if         desired.

From the forgoing, it will be appreciated that the present invention comprises a bi-directionally peristaltic pump assembly 14 for air maintenance of a tire 12. The circular air tube 42 may flatten, segment by segment, and close in the tire footprint 100. The air inlet device 68 may include an outer filter sleeve 92 formed of porous cellular material and thereby render the air inlet device 68 self-cleaning. The outlet device 70 may employ a valve unit (see co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/775,552, filed May 7, 2010, incorporated herein by reference). The peristaltic pump assembly 14 may pump air through rotation of the tire 12 in either direction, one half of a revolution pumping air to the tire cavity 40 and the other half of a revolution pumping air back out of the inlet device 68. The peristaltic pump assembly 14 may be used with a secondary tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) (not shown) that may serve as a system fault detector. The TPMS may be used to detect any fault in the self-inflation system of the tire assembly 10 and alert the user of such a condition.

The tire air maintenance system 10 may further incorporate a variable pressure pump groove 56 with one or more inwardly directed ridges or ribs 66 engaging and compressing a segment of the air tube 42 opposite such rib(s). The pitch or frequency of the ribs may increase toward the outlet device 70 for gradually reducing air volume within the passageway 43 by compressing the tube 42. The reduction in air volume may increase air pressure within the passageway 43 and thereby facilitate a more efficient air flow from the tube 42 into the tire cavity 40. The increase in tube pressure may be achieved by engagement by the ribs 66 of the groove 56 and the tube 42 having uniform dimensions along the tube length. The tube 42 may thus be made of uniform dimension and of relatively smaller size without compromising the flow pressure of air to the tire cavity 40 for maintaining air pressure. The pitch and amplitude of the ridges 66 may both be varied to better achieve the desired pressure increase within the passageway 43.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the tube 42 may be a groove molded integrally into the sidewall 32 of the tire 10 and defining an oval (not shown) or U-shaped (FIG. 16) passageway 43. A cover strip 201 may be applied at the open end of the groove 42 for separating the groove from ambient air pressure. Check valves (not shown) of the above described valve system may be positioned in pockets (e.g., pockets may be molded into the sidewall groove 42) at multiple arcuate, or circumferential, positions about the groove 42 with the cover strip 201 further securing/sealing the check valves in the groove. The cover strip 201 may be a gum strip or a suitably reinforced strip (e.g., cords). The cover strip 201 may be cured directly to the sidewall 32 of the already cured tire 10, for example, by a heated platen.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a separate tube 212 may be placed within a groove 42 molded integrally into the sidewall 32 of the tire 10 and defining an oval passageway 43 (FIG. 17). The tube 212 may have an outer profile corresponding to the inner profile of the groove 42. An inner cover strip 222 may be applied at the axially inner end of the groove 42 and an outer cover strip 202 may be applied at the open end of the groove for securing the tube 212 within the groove. Check valves (not shown) of the above described valve system may be integrated (e.g., pockets may be molded into the sidewall groove 42) at multiple arcuate, or circumferential, positions about the tube 212. The outer cover strip 202 may be a gum strip or a suitably reinforced strip (e.g., cords). The outer cover strip 202 may be cured directly to the sidewall 32 of the already cured tire 10, for example, by a heated platen. The inner cover strip 222 may also be cured directly to the groove 42 and to the bottom of the separate tube 212, for example, by the heated platen.

In accordance with still another aspect of the present invention, a tube assembly 42 may comprise an extruded plastic first tube 213 and an extruded second tube 223 (FIG. 18). The first tube 213 may be secured (e.g., adhesive) within a groove molded integrally into the sidewall 32 of the tire 10. The first tube 213 may have a partially closed, U-shaped outer profile for better securing the first tube in the groove. The second tube 223 may define a circular passageway 43. The first tube 213 may define a partially closed U-shaped opening for receiving and retaining the circular second tube 223. The circular outer profile of the second tube 223 may better withstand the constant pinching of the pump assembly 14. The second tube 223 may alternatively have an outer profile corresponding to the inner profile (e.g., partially closed U-shaped) of the first tube 213. The U-shaped opening of the first tube 213 may further include relief cuts at the inner corners of the U-shaped opening for facilitating pinching of the tube assembly 42. Plastic check valves (not shown) of the above described valve system, having the same outer profile as the first tube 213, may be integrated (e.g., adhesive) at multiple arcuate, or circumferential, positions about the first tube.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a tube assembly 42 (FIG. 19) may comprise a molded plastic first tube 214 and an extruded second tube 224. The first tube 214 may be secured (e.g., adhesive) within a groove molded integrally into the sidewall 32 of the tire 10. The first tube 214 may have a partially closed, U-shaped outer profile for better securing the first tube in the groove. The second tube 224 may define a circular passageway 43. The first tube 214 may define a U-shaped opening for correspondingly receiving and retaining the second tube 224. The second tube 224 may have an outer profile corresponding to the inner profile (e.g., U-shaped) of the first tube 214. The U-shaped opening of the first tube 214 may further include relief cuts at the inner corners of the U-shaped opening for facilitating pinching of the tube assembly 42. Alternatively, the second tube 224 may have a circular outer profile (not shown) for better withstanding the constant pinching of the pump assembly 14. Plastic check valves (not shown) of the above described valve system, having the same outer profile as the second tube 224, may be integrated at multiple arcuate, or circumferential, positions about the first tube. Alternatively, plastic check valves (not shown) of the above described valve system, having a larger profile than the second tube 224 may be integrated (e.g., secured with adhesive in preformed pockets in the first tube 214) at multiple arcuate, or circumferential, positions about the first tube 214.

In accordance with still another aspect of the present invention, a tube assembly 42 may comprise a molded plastic first tube 215 and an extruded second tube 225 (FIG. 20). The first tube 215 may be secured (e.g., adhesive) within a groove molded integrally into the sidewall 32 of the tire 10. The first tube 215 may have a partially closed, U-shaped outer profile for better securing the first tube in the groove. The first tube 215 may further have outer radial extensions 235 engaging corresponding recesses in sides of the groove for circumferentially securing the tube assembly 42 in the groove. The extensions 235 may extend radially outward or radially inward. The first tube 215 may define a partially closed U-shaped opening for receiving and retaining the circular second tube 225. The circular outer profile of the second tube 225 may better withstand the constant pinching of the pump assembly 14. The second tube 225 may alternatively have an outer profile corresponding to the inner profile (e.g., partially closed U-shaped) of the first tube 215. The U-shaped opening of the first tube 215 may further include relief cuts at the inner corners of the U-shaped opening for facilitating pinching of the tube assembly 42. Plastic check valves (not shown) of the above described valve system, having the same outer profile as the second tube 225, may be integrated (e.g., adhesive) at multiple arcuate, or circumferential, positions about the first tube.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a tube assembly 42 may comprise a molded plastic first tube 216 and an extruded second tube 226 (FIG. 21). The first tube 216 may be secured (e.g., adhesive) within a groove molded integrally into the sidewall 32 of the tire 10. The first tube 216 may have a partially closed, U-shaped outer profile for better securing the first tube in the groove. The first tube 216 may further have inner radial extensions 236 engaging corresponding recesses in sides of the groove for circumferentially securing the tube assembly 42 in the groove. The extensions 236 may extend radially outward or radially inward. The first tube 216 may define a partially closed U-shaped opening for receiving and retaining the circular second tube 226. The circular outer profile of the second tube 226 may better withstand the constant pinching of the pump assembly 14. The second tube 226 may alternatively have an outer profile corresponding to the inner profile (e.g., partially closed U-shaped) of the first tube 216 (not shown). The U-shaped opening of the first tube 216 may further include relief cuts at the inner corners of the U-shaped opening for facilitating pinching of the tube assembly 42. Plastic check valves (not shown) of the above described valve system, having the same outer profile as the second tube 226, may be located at multiple arcuate, or circumferential, positions about the first tube with the second tube 226 extending therefrom. Alternatively, plastic check valves (not shown) of the above described valve system, having a larger outer profile than the second tube 226, may be located (e.g., secured with adhesive in preformed pockets of the first tube 216) at multiple arcuate, or circumferential, positions about the first tube 216 with the second tube 226 extending therefrom.

Variations in the present invention are possible in light of the description of it provided herein. While certain representative examples and details have been shown for the purpose of illustrating the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in this art that various changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the scope of the present invention. It is, therefore, to be understood that changes may be made in the particular examples described which will be within the full intended scope of the present invention as defined by the following appended claims. 

1. A tire assembly comprising: a tire having a pneumatic cavity; first and second sidewalls extending respectively from first and second tire bead regions to a tire tread region, the first sidewall having at least one bending region operatively bending when radially within a rolling tire footprint; and a sidewall groove defined by groove sidewalls positioned within the bending region of the first tire sidewall, the groove deforming segment by segment between a non-deformed state and a deformed, constricted state in response to the bending of the first sidewall bending region radially within the rolling tire footprint, an air passageway defined by the sidewall groove and a cover strip, the air passageway resiliently deforming segment by segment between an expanded condition and an at least partially collapsed condition in response to respective segment by segment deformation of the sidewall groove when radially within the rolling tire footprint, the cover strip being applied at an open end of the sidewall groove for separating the air passageway from ambient air pressure.
 2. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 1 wherein the cover strip is cured directly to the first, already cured tire sidewall.
 3. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 1 wherein the cover strip is cured to the first tire sidewall by a heated platen.
 4. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 1 further including a separate tube disposed within the sidewall groove, the separate tube defining a circular air passageway.
 5. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 4 wherein the separate tube has an outer profile corresponding to an inner profile of the sidewall groove.
 6. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 4 further including a second cover strip disposed at an axially inner end of the sidewall groove.
 7. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 6 wherein the first cover strip is cured directly to the first, already cured tire sidewall by a heated platen.
 8. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 6 wherein the cover strip is cord reinforced.
 9. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 6 wherein the second cover strip is cured to the sidewall groove by a heated platen.
 10. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 1 further including check valves disposed at multiple arcuate positions about the sidewall groove.
 11. A tire assembly comprising: a tire having a pneumatic cavity; first and second sidewalls extending respectively from first and second tire bead regions to a tire tread region, the first sidewall having at least one bending region operatively bending when radially within a rolling tire footprint; and a sidewall groove defined by groove sidewalls positioned within the bending region of the first tire sidewall, the groove deforming segment by segment between a non-deformed state and a deformed, constricted state in response to the bending of the first sidewall bending region being radially within the rolling tire footprint, an air passageway defined by the sidewall groove and a tube assembly, the air passageway resiliently deforming segment by segment between an expanded condition and an at least partially collapsed condition in response to respective segment by segment deformation of the groove when radially within the rolling tire footprint, the tube assembly comprising a first tube and a second tube, the first tube secured within the sidewall groove, the second tube secured within the first tube, the second tube defining the air passageway resiliently deforming segment by segment between an expanded condition and an at least partially collapsed condition in response to respective segment by segment deformation of the tube assembly when radially within the rolling tire footprint.
 12. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 11 wherein the first tube is formed of an extruded plastic and the second tube is formed of an extruded polymer.
 13. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 11 wherein the second tube has an outer circular cross-section and an inner circular cross-section.
 14. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 11 wherein the first tube comprises relief cuts at axially inner corners of a U-shaped opening for facilitating pinching of the tube assembly.
 15. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 11 wherein the second tube has an outer profile corresponding to an inner profile of the first tube.
 16. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 11 wherein the first tube comprises outer radial extensions engaging corresponding recesses in the sidewall groove for circumferentially securing the tube assembly within the sidewall groove.
 17. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 16 wherein the outer radial extensions project radially inward.
 18. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 16 wherein the outer radial extensions project radially outward.
 19. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 11 further including an adhesive securing the first tube within the sidewall groove, the adhesive further securing plastic check valves to the first tube.
 20. The tire assembly as set forth in claim 11 wherein the first tube comprises an inner partially closed U-shaped profile in cross-section and an outer partially closed U-shaped profile in cross-section, the first tube further comprising pockets for receiving plastic check valves. 